Montell Jordan worked hard for years before finally getting his big break with the single “This is How We Do It.”

Before the song’s success, Jordan participated in many determined efforts, such as contests, showcases, nightclub gigs, and even singing in church on Sunday mornings. With all that and persistence, Jordan would create the biggest song of his career.

Before the single became a hit, Jordan recalls trying for over seven years to get a record deal. In 1995, he told the Boston Globe that he did not expect the song’s success. “The song’s success came out of nowhere, but I’ve been trying to get a record deal for seven years. So I feel like I’ve been around for a while and paying dues.”

“This is How We Do It” became successful for several reasons, including the song’s ability to capture the sound of new-age hip-hop and traditional R&B. The single not only brought fans of both together but also catapulted Jordan to stardom. It was the biggest song of his career and a game-changer in the music industry.

Montell Jordan’s hard work had just begun

The song’s success didn’t stop Jordan from working hard to become a household name. In the artist’s eyes, he still had a long way to go. “I still try to meet as many people as possible and perform as many times as possible because there will always be people who haven’t heard of me.”

That dedication led Jordan to a chart-topping single and album. His debut album, named after the single, climbed to the top 20 of the Billboard 200 and later peaked at number 12. The album’s success landed Jordan a spot on a Summer tour with Boyz II Men and TLC.

The then 27-year-old singer credited his career success to his skillful blend of R&B and hip-hop elements. The R&B side came naturally because Jordan grew up on artists like Teddy Pendergrass, Isaac Hayes, and the Spinners. He often recalls how their soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics inspired him.

The hip-hop sound was more challenging since he never wanted to be a rapper, but he found a way to incorporate it into his music.

“I’ve been into rap since I was 11 or 12, but I never wanted to be a rapper,” he said in a 1995 interview with the Winston-Salem Journal. “My heart has always been with traditional R&B, so I wanted to sing.”

Jordan confidently shared his plans to build a musical empire and enter the business side of music, knowing that he had the skills and talent to succeed in this new venture.

Photo credit: From the music video of “This is How We Do It”